TheoQ

Hello! I am reaching out to get some help with the seminaries that are on my radar. The two seminaries are Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and Princeton Theological Seminary. I have been accepted to the MDIV programs at both seminaries. Woohoo! Here is some information about me that might be helpful: I am PC(USA) and adhere to most reformed theology (that I am aware of). I am fairly moderate-conservative if I have to categorize myself. I am from the Midwest. My future goals are focused around pastoral ministry. I do not have any plans on pursuing a PhD at the moment. At most I might get a ThM or a DMin. Those are future plans though. Being that I am PC(USA) I know that PTS will likely contribute 100% aid for tuition. GCTS offers scholarships that cover tuition but there is no guarantee that I will receive them and to my understanding I will not know until I have firmly committed to attending the seminary. I have been blessed to receive some financial help from my church, but even with that, GCTS is still significantly more expensive than PTS. Overall, money wise, PTS is cheaper than GCTS. One difference that I believe I have come to realize is that PTS in more ways than GCTS is preparing students for PhD work instead of ministry. GCTS seems to be more focused on preparing students for pastoral ministry. I have visited both schools and feel they are both great in their own ways. A concern of mine is what kind of teaching PTS offers in comparison to GCTS. I have heard that GCTS is very bible and language focused. They are more conservative, however, that is not a selling point for me. I have heard that PTS is a very well-rounded seminary. However, and I hope not to offend continuing, but a direct concern of mine is whether PTS is a school that a moderate-conservative student would find themselves at home. My biggest issue is that I simply do not know and can only go off of what I hear from other people. What I have heard from other people is that PTS has become more focused on gender equality, racial concerns, and other similar areas, and in pursuit of that, reformed / systematic theology, and biblical rigor no longer take the spotlight. I agree that these topics need focused on, I just worry that it will be the center of my education at PTS. Again, my biggest problem is that I am hearing these things from "one side of the room" and not the other. I am not asking anyone to convince me, but rather share light on what you've experienced and believe the main focus of teaching is at PTS. Also, are there other students there that have the same concerns that I do? Did they or you enjoy your time at PTS? How about those who went to GCTS? My visit to GCTS was great. They seem to be very dedicated to the languages and teaching of the Bible. There seems to be a strong focus on mission work. What has been your experience at GCTS? Were you in a similar position as me? Something on the side that has been brought to my attention is the recognizability of PTS vs. GCTS. Both schools are well known. However, PTS is more well known. So, although I am hoping that doesn't play a large role, I think in a way it still holds space. Thank you to any who take the time to read this and I appreciate any feedback given. God bless!